Diary Entry - 01/17/1984

N.S.C. meeting—actually it was to say goodbye to Ambassador Valenzuela of Chile. He delivered a nice message from Pres. Pinochet. Then 2nd guest was Mrs. Massey. She is a regular visitor to Russia. She’s dedicated to previewing some of old Russia’s art and is helping with an art museum. Widely acquainted among Russians in art & cultural activities—has no truck with the govt. types. She was most complimentary about my speech. Lunch was a round table meeting with a group concerned about the family in America—an interesting time & a lot of interesting & diverse view points. Met with Paul Nitze. He too believes we must not yield to Soviet pressure to make a new offer to get the Soviets to resume the I.N.F. talks. That would be rewarding them for walking out. Cabinet Council meeting on Natural Resources & Environment. A lot of decisions to be made on Western Water policies, toxic waste dumps, wetlands, preserving offshore sandbars and doing something about acid rain. This last calls for more research. I also approved lifting regulations restricting use of methanol as a fuel for cars. Then Nancy & I went over to the Hay Adams hotel for a reception—“Citizens For The Republic.” This is the group formed with my leftover 1976 campaign funds. About 85 people all stalwart supporters—very pleasant half hour.